Marvin Liebman to Lead Vigil for Mel White
Press Release
February 27, 1995
Today the Rev. Dr. James Melville White entered day fourteen of a fast. He
is the former ghostwriter for leaders of the so-called religious right and
a minister in the Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches.
On Tuesday, February 14, White attempted to set an appointment with Pat
Robertson, founder and CEO of Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN). On
Wednesday, February 15, White was arrested for trespassing at the CBN
compound.
Each afternoon since White was arrested thirteen days ago, a group of
delegates from Bearing Witness have attempted to arrange a meeting for
White with Robertson. Bearing Witness is a coalition of religious leaders
and community organizations. Gays and lesbians are being physically,
emotionally and spiritually damaged by some religious rhetoric and
untruths. Bearing Witness is supporting White's efforts to get Robertson
to do two things: to acknowledge that anti-gay rhetoric results in
violence against the gay community and to denounce those acts of violence.
Today, the Bearing Witness delegation was led by Rev. Bob Bradford,
retired Presbyterian minister, and his wife Connie. Connie presented the
gift of a red rose with a day-glo pink button bearing the message
"Pat, Meet with Mel" and a card to a security guard.
As Bearing Witness was leaving the compound, the group was met by
Donald Spitz, an advocate of violence against abortion clinics and staff.
Spitz asked "How are the homo's today?" He held his hand-printed sign
which said, "Pat, just say no to the homo." His supporters also
held signs. Security stayed with the Spitz group and appeared to be
attempting to block the view of the signs from the highway in front
of the CBN headquarters. Spitz also shouted to the group "Give up your
sexual perversions. Who do you choose? Satan or God?"
Bearing Witness will hold a Truth Vigil at the Unitarian Church of
Norfolk, 739 Yarmouth Street, Norfolk, Virginia on Sunday, March 5
from 4 to 6pm. The vigil will end with a candlelight procession in
support of Dr. White. Marvin Liebman, author of 'Coming Out Conservative'
will be a guest speaker at the vigil.